GET READY TO RUMBLE IN RIYADH: HERE’S EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW AHEAD OF THE HISTORIC EVENT

Manal Saleh

Riyadh, 26 January 2026: The road to WrestleMania begins as WWE returns to Riyadh with the highly anticipated Royal Rumble, on January 31st, 2026. Marking the first time the Royal Rumble will be hosted outside of North America, the historic event is all set to impress with explosive matchups, thrilling returns and plenty of dramatics to match.

With their sights set on victory, an iconic lineup of Superstars are ready to make their mark at the landmark event. Fans can expect an entertainment spectacle unlike anything they’ve ever seen before, as rivalries reach boiling points and alliances are tested. With world-class production, large-than-life pyrotechnics and dramatic storytelling, Royal Rumble is all set to make history.

What is Royal Rumble?

Royal Rumble will bring together some of the biggest names from Raw and SmackDown for an unmissable night of high-stakes drama.  A Royal Rumble match begins with two Superstars in the ring. Every 90 seconds, a new Superstar enters the fray. Elimination only occurs when a Superstar has gone over the top rope and both feet have touched the floor. This continues until there is just one man or one woman left standing as the winner of the Royal Rumble Match, winning a guaranteed Men’s or Women’s Championship Match at WrestleMania 42.

Who is on the match card for Royal Rumble?

The Men’s Royal Rumble will see global icons including Cody Rhodes, Rey Mysterio, Gunther, Jey Uso, Dragon Lee and Penta ignite the arena with high-intensity performances. They’ll be joined by a number of surprises declaring their entry on the night.

The Women’s Royal Rumble will bring its own exhilarating action, with WWE Superstars including IYO SKY, Rhea Ripley, Roxanne Perez, Liv Morgan, Bayley, Lyra Valkyria and Asuka all in attendance. With 30 women competing for the top spot, the match is expected to deliver major moments, surprise returns, and the kind of twists fans look forward to every year.

The show will also see Drew McIntyre defend his Undisputed WWE Championship against the winner of a No.1 Contender’s Tournament between Randy Orton, Trick Williams, Damian Priest and Sami Zayn.

Where is Royal Rumble being held?

Royal Rumble will be held at a brand-new, purpose-built venue in King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD). Set against one of the Kingdom’s most futuristic skylines, this year’s edition promises to deliver an entertainment spectacle unlike anything the region has ever hosted.

When is Royal Rumble?

Royal Rumble is taking place on Saturday 31^st January and is scheduled to begin with a Kickoff show from 8PM (KSA) / 9PM (UAE). Watch Royal Rumble live across the region on Netflix.

Is SmackDown going to be televised live from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia?

Ahead of Royal Rumble, SmackDown will take place in Riyadh on Friday 30^th January from 8pm KSA. Featuring top WWE Superstars and pivotal storylines, SmackDown will set the scene for the weekend ahead of the historic Royal Rumble. Fans can watch WWE SmackDown live via Netflix, across the region. 

Who were the previous five winners of the Men’s Royal Rumble Match?

·        2025: Jey Uso

·        2024: Cody Rhodes

·        2023: Cody Rhodes

·        2022: Brock Lesnar

·        2021: Edge

Who were the previous five winners of the Women’s Royal Rumble Match?

·        2025: Charlotte Flair

·        2024: Bayley

·        2023: Rhea Ripley 

·        2022: Ronda Rousey 

·        2021: Bianca Belair